The Tall Ships Races Kristiansand 2025: A grand seafaring celebration

By Celina Tran

This summer, Kristiansand will once again host The Tall Ships Races. The spectacular event will bring majestic tall ships from around the world to the city’s harbour, offering an unforgettable experience. It promises to be a grand celebration blending adventure, coastal history, and cultural exchange into one remarkable festivity.

In 1956, the very first Tall Ships sail training race set off from Torbay in the UK to Lisbon in Portugal. The event, which was to be a celebration of the world’s remaining Class A Tall Ships, was such a spectacle that the Sail Training International Committee decided to make it a biennial event to encourage friendly competition and community amongst young seafarers.

The Tall Ships Races Kristiansand 2025: a grand seafaring celebration

Photo: Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park

“Today, the regatta is an annual event that offers young people the chance to join a crew of sailors and develop their sailing skills through practical training,” says Marianne Osmundsen Tronstad, project manager at Tall Ship Races Kristiansand 2025.

Sail Training International, the non-profit organisation behind the event, owns the Tall Ships concept, which focuses on training young people from diverse backgrounds aged 15 to 25. These young sailors make up at least 50 per cent of the crew on each ship, providing a unique chance for hands-on sail training.

The main square prior to the crew parade. Photo: Trygve Tønnessen

“Many consider it a life changing experience where new friendships are formed and unforgettable memories are made. The young sailors gain valuable learning and bonding opportunities unlocking hidden strengths and becoming part of something much bigger than themselves. During the sail training adventure, all these young people will be sleeping in hammocks, working, and eating together – all hands on deck,” says Tronstad.

While The Tall Ships Races has been an international tradition since 1956, this will be Kristiansand’s third time hosting the event. The city previously welcomed the race in 2010 and 2015, and aims to be even bigger and better in 2025. Ships come from all over Europe, and beyond – from Mexico to Oman – making the event a truly global affair.

“Being chosen as a host city is an honour, and it brings immense value to our local community. Not only do we get to witness these magnificent ships, but the event also serves as a platform for cultural exchange across the borders,” says assistant project manager Tore Løvland.

The full-rigged ship Sørlandet. Photo: Arne Lunde

A unique experience for all

In 2025, Kristiansand will host a stunning array of ships and also offer rich cultural and artistic experiences. The city’s streets and waterfronts will come alive with music, food, and interactive activities designed to bring the community together.

“One exciting new feature is the midnight concert at Odderøya, where attendees can enjoy world-class music by Sofie Fjellvang and Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra. All while gazing out at the breathtaking views of the southern coastline, the city of Kristiansand, and, weather permitting, even parts of Denmark,” says Løvland.

“The festivities are about more than just the ships; they’re about creating lasting memories for everyone who attends. The night concerts at Odderøya will offer visitors a chance to experience something truly unique – a perfect way to cap off the day’s events.”

Crew parade downtown Kristiansand. Photo: Tor Erik Schrøder

There will be events for people of all ages, with ten concerts a day across four stages featuring a range of genres and artists from both Norway and abroad, such as Bjøro Hildebrandt, Arthur Stulien, and Kinsey Rose.

The children’s area will feature a variety of fun and educational family activities where kids can learn about the sea, sailing, paddling, and the environmental impacts faced by the ocean. For children with functional diversities, there will be daily parasailing organised by the Norwegian Association of Disabled.

Of course, the highlight of the event is the stunning Tall Ships Parade, where visitors can witness the sight of over 50 different tall ships sailing out of the harbour.

“There’s something special about watching these majestic ships dock in our harbour, and it’s even more magical to see them sail out again. It’s a connection to our local maritime heritage, international friendships, and a celebration of youth and inclusivity,” says Tronstad. “We’re grateful to all our local partners who make this fabulous event possible.”

The Tall Ships Races Kristiansand will take place from 30 July until 2 August. “We’re delighted to welcome visitors from far and near to the event of the year!” says Trondstad.